Nairobi County Environment Chief Officer Geoffrey Mosiria has voiced his frustration after heavy rainfall caused widespread flooding across the capital. The downpour, which began on Friday, led to waterlogged roads and traffic chaos.
Just hours after the rains descended, Mr Mosiria lamented receiving intense criticism. He said: “Mvua kidogo tu na nimeanza kupata strays from all corners,” expressing the immediate public backlash aimed at his office.
Torrential Rains Spark County Warning
The heavy rains hit Nairobi, rendering some roads impassable by Saturday morning. The flooding was largely caused by drainage systems being blocked.
Mr Mosiria acknowledged that his team is constantly trying to manage the drainage issues. However, he pointed out that when action is taken against those responsible for the blockages, some residents still complain.
He defended Governor Johnson Sakaja, noting that some residents quickly criticize the county government online. Yet, these same residents contribute directly to the problem they complain about.
“Watu wanatoka na takataka kwa nyumba yao wanarusha kando ya barabara. Wengine wakipita kwa gari wanarusha nje,” Mosiria explained, detailing how dumped rubbish blocks drains, causing water to return to the road.
Demolition Order Issued Against Illegal Structures
Mr Mosiria has promised swift and decisive action to combat the causes of the city’s floods. He has issued a stern warning to property owners whose illegal actions worsen the situation.
He stated that the county government will begin demolishing illegal structures built on drainage systems, riverbanks, and road reserves. These developments often block the natural flow of stormwater, resulting in severe flooding.
“If you have an illegal structure on top of a drainage system, start removing it because we are going to demolish it,” Mr Mosiria warned.
READ TOO: KURA - 3 roads in Nairobi and Kiambu closed due to floods
He added that anyone causing public disturbance or blocking drainage lines faces arrest and prosecution.
Private garbage collection firms and community-based organisations (CBOs) were also warned against dumping waste illegally. Their licences face revocation, and they could be blacklisted from future county operations.
Collective Responsibility is Key
Despite the ongoing effort by the Nairobi County Government to unclog drainage systems, Mr Mosiria urged citizens to take ownership. He stressed that solving the issue requires collective responsibility.
He advised residents in a position to clear the drainage channel in front of their house or business to kindly do so.
“It’s a shared responsibility,” said the Chief Officer.
Residents living near rivers were urged to relocate at least 30 metres from riparian zones. Encroachment in these areas significantly increases the risk of property destruction due to flooding.
Met Department Forecasts More Rain
The heavy rainfall is set to continue over the weekend. The Kenya Meteorological Department (Met) issued an advisory warning residents of Nairobi and surrounding areas to expect intense rainfall from Friday, October 3, to Sunday, October 5, 2025.
Some Nairobi areas were expected to experience heavy rainfall exceeding 50mm. Other areas were forecast to receive moderate rainfall, ranging from 5mm to 50mm.
The Met Department warned citizens about localised floods and traffic disruptions. They urged motorists and pedestrians to plan carefully to avoid risks associated with the downpour.
Citizens were further advised to remain alert, avoid crossing moving waters, and stay indoors during any thunderstorms. Strong winds were also forecast, which may cause property damage.
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